"I actually felt like I was making a difference," volunteer Leonardo Juarez said.

The Fourth of July brought revelers and trash along with them, but the good was what was left over wasn't as much as previous years.

"I think they were more prepared. They had people yesterday handing out plastic bags and doing some advocacy," Save Our Shores volunteer Karen Gumby said. "It happens to be the most toxic and the least degradable."

Saturday's beach cleanup was made possible by the nonprofit marine conservation organization Save Our Shores. About 60 people volunteered, and the hope is that as more people become aware of the events, more people will lend a hand.

"I think the environment is a really important issue, especially when it comes to something that is so close to home," volunteer Xiadani Juarez said.